What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is the branch of dentistry that is concerned with improving a person’s appearance and mouth health through cosmetic treatment. This includes repairing any damage to teeth, gums, and/or jaw structures caused by periodontal disease or trauma. Cosmetic work is often carried out on teeth that are otherwise healthy, but their alignment and structure may not be ideal, or they may simply be unsightly.

You can consult a dentist in Coconut Creek if you are feeling less confident about your teeth or dental alignment. Cosmetic dentists take care of the aesthetics of people’s mouths to help make them appear more attractive. For example, decay-causing gaps between teeth can be filled with composite resin in a procedure known as dental veneer placement to increase overall dental esthetics and functionality.

Most Common Procedures in Cosmetic Dentistry

• Teeth whitening

The whitening process is often used to remove stains and discoloration caused by teeth staining due to tobacco use, exposure to foods, drinks, or medication. In some cases, teeth whitening can be effective in making teeth a whiter color. There are several different types of tooth whitening processes ranging from bleaching and air-drying/glow in the dark gel, as well as laser and light-based treatments.

• Dental bridges

A dental bridge is a dental prosthesis that can be used to replace missing teeth by supporting replacement teeth or dentures on either side of the gap. For people who have lost one or more front teeth, dental bridges can help in maintaining proper oral balance and prevent embarrassment caused by an uneven smile. Also, for elderly patients having difficulty chewing, food often gets trapped between their remaining back teeth and dentures, causing discomfort and further weakening the jawbone.

• Porcelain crowns

A crown is a replacement for a decayed, broken, or missing tooth. When you have an imperfection on any tooth, your dentist will recommend the type of crown needed to restore them. A veneer is simply a thin sheet of tooth-colored material that covers the front surface of an existing tooth, providing a new appearance to the area around it to give the illusion of one healthy tooth.

• Porcelain veneers

A porcelain veneer is often placed over an existing tooth when they are in need of repair or as part of dental restoration. The procedure involves a dental laboratory fabricating a tooth-colored shell and then bonding it to the front of the tooth. The porcelain veneer can also conceal discoloration, chips, cracks, or gaps between teeth that detract from a smile’s appearance.